Milazzo (Melazzo), Sicily, Siege of 1718, Antique Engraving, circa 1720

An early eighteenth century copperplate engraving of Milazzo on the north coast of Sicily, titled "MELAZZO" on a fluttering ribbon banner with tasseled ends across the top of the sky. The town spreads along a rocky headland seen from the sea: a castle with square towers and battlements crowns the hill, walls and houses step down the slope, and a round tower flying a flag guards the point at right. A few low buildings and small figures line the shore below.

At left, a large sailing ship sends up a towering column of smoke, apparently on fire, while a second ship sails on the open sea at right and a rock breaks the water in the middle distance. The sea is described in bold, rhythmic engraved waves.

The German caption engraved beneath the image describes Milazzo as a well fortified town and good harbor in the Kingdom of Sicily, which in the last war was besieged by the Spaniards for eight months, then abandoned by them when the Imperial relief approached, and restored to its rightful lord. This refers to the Spanish siege of Milazzo that began in 1718 during the War of the Quadruple Alliance. The plate number 205 is engraved at upper right, and an old ink number has been struck through in the top margin. No engraver or publisher is named on the sheet.

The print is a copperplate engraving, with lively, open line work typical of the German view books of the period. The platemark and borderline frame the view and caption.

A spirited small view with real historical bite, it suits a study, a library or a collection of Sicilian or Mediterranean views, and would look right in a narrow dark frame.

This is an original antique print, not a modern reproduction. This item is sold unframed.